LeBron James has cemented his place in NBA history. Nobody can take it away from him. He’s one of the best players in the history of the league.
We’ve seen James win four NBA championships. He’s been to the NBA Finals 9 times. There’s a formula for success when you have James on your roster – surround him with shooting.
The Los Angeles Lakers have not followed that formula. They won a title with James, but in general, they haven’t prioritized spacing the floor around him. Could they change that this summer by acquiring Cameron Johnson of the Brooklyn Nets?
NBA Trade Proposal
Brooklyn Nets Receive: F Rui Hachimura, G Gabe Vincent, 2029 First-Round Pick (Top 5 Protected – LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: F Cameron Johnson
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of James’ career is his longevity. He’s performing at an All-NBA level in his 21st season in the league. That’s unheard of.
We’ve never seen anything like it before. Even playing in the league for this long is an impressive feat. We’ve seen other superstars do it, but at this stage of their career, they’re role players. Has James even declined?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Cameron Johnson, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
To some extent. Above all else, James needs to conserve energy more than he used to. Perhaps that’s why the Lakers have prioritized putting secondary playmakers around him rather than floor spacers. With that in mind, is Johnson the right target for them?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
Time will tell. The Lakers may prefer to put all of their eggs in one basket. If this team wants to trade for a star point guard this summer, that’s understandable.
At the same time, Johnson would make life easier for everyone. It would be difficult for teams to double-team James – or Anthony Davis – with Johnson spacing the floor. Meanwhile, Johnson isn’t strictly a shooting specialist, either.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Cameron Johnson, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
He’s also a capable defender. James often needs to conserve energy on that end of the floor, so Johnson would be a useful addition. Should the Nets part with him?
Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
The Nets don’t have their version of James. They don’t have anyone comparable. Meanwhile, they won’t be able to draft their franchise player either. The Houston Rockets control the first round of their draft through to 2027.
The Nets may have enough assets to trade for a star. With that said, they’ll face some stiff competition if one becomes available. A handful of teams could outbid the Nets for a superstar player on the open market.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Cameron Johnson, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
So, we’ve got them acquiring another asset to use in a trade. Losing Johnson will sting, but it will be worth it if it helps them bring in a star – as long as they’re not holding out for someone on LeBron James’ level.
